ginataang manok chicken cooked in coconut milk
Welcome to my kitchen! Today,I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for ginataang manok,a Filipino chicken dish that’s rich,creamy,and bursting with flavor. If you love the taste of coconut and ginger as much as I do, you’re in for a treat! So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking—your taste buds are about to go on a delicious adventure!
Simple ingredients for Delicious Ginataang Manok
Let’s gather what we need for this tasty ginataang manok! this recipe is straightforward and uses common ingredients to create a delicious meal.Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 3 tablespoons canola oil: This oil is perfect for frying the ginger and chicken, giving a light flavor without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup sliced fresh ginger: Ginger adds a warm, aromatic flavor that truly sets this dish apart. Fresh ginger is best, but you could use ground ginger in a pinch—just reduce the amount.
- 1 (5-pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces: The heart of our dish! You can ask your butcher to cut it for you, or do it yourself at home. Make sure to use a whole chicken for the best flavor.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: These simple seasonings enhance the dish’s flavors. Don’t be shy with the salt, as coconut milk can mellow it out.
- 2 (14 ounce) cans coconut milk: This is were the magic lies! Coconut milk gives the dish its rich and creamy texture.
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach,thawed and drained: Adding spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely color contrast to the dish.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that pairs well with rice. You can even serve it with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. Now, let’s jump into how to cook this deliciousness!
step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ginataang Manok
Ready to cook? Follow these steps to make your ginataang manok a hit at the dinner table.I promise, it’s easier than it looks!
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, add the canola oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, toss in the sliced ginger. Cook and stir untill it’s fragrant and lightly browned—this will take about 2-3 minutes. Remove the ginger and set it aside.
- Season the Chicken: while the ginger is cooking, season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor.
- Brown the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown.
- Add Ginger and Coconut Milk: Now, return the browned ginger to the skillet. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with the lid slightly tilted. This allows steam to escape.Simmer the chicken for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and tender, with no pink at the bone.
- Stir in Spinach: add the thawed spinach to the skillet. simmer uncovered for an additional 8-12 minutes until the spinach is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
That’s it! You’re left with a delightful ginataang manok that’s perfect for sharing. Serve it over rice, and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aromas that will fill your kitchen!
Serving and storage Information for Ginataang Manok
When it comes to serving ginataang manok, I love to enjoy it with a steaming bowl of white rice. This dish is rich and flavorful, making the rice the perfect companion to soak up all that creamy coconut goodness.Here’s how to serve and store it:
Serving suggestions:
- Portion Sizes: This recipe yields about 6 servings, so it’s great for family meals or casual gatherings. I recommend serving it in larger bowls for a hearty portion, especially if you have rice on the side.
- Garnishes: For fun, sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
- sides: You can pair it with some pickled vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely because it’s so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the ginataang manok. Just let it cool completely,than place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Reheating Instructions:
- When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to return some moisture, as it can dry out during storage. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
taking these steps will help you enjoy this comforting dish even after the initial meal!
Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Ginataang Manok
Making ginataang manok is fun, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Key Notes:
- Coconut Milk Quality: Always use high-quality coconut milk for the best flavor. If you can, opt for brands that use 100% coconut without additives. This makes a notable difference in taste.
- Chicken Cuts: For the best flavor, bone-in chicken is recommended. The bones impart more taste to the sauce. if you prefer,you can use skinless chicken pieces to make it a bit lighter.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Too Watery: if your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a little longer to thicken. This will help concentrate the flavors.
- Too Salty: If you’ve accidentally added too much salt, try adding a little more coconut milk to balance it out. You can also add a small piece of raw potato to absorb some saltiness—just remove it before serving.
- Spice Level: If you like your dish with a hint of spice, you can add a few slices of chili peppers when you add the coconut milk. This gives it a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
By following these notes and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering ginataang manok! Enjoy the process and the delicious results.